Tarte Amazonian Butter Lipstick ($16.00 for 0.10 oz.) launched recently as a “moisturizing, creamy lipstick.” They’re supposed to “add a splash of rich color and creamy shine” while delivering “intense moisture.” I’ve been testing two shades over the past couple of weeks, and it’s a decent to good formula, but it didn’t knock it out of the park for me. It really wasn’t that hydrating for me; no more than the average lipstick–just lightly hydrating–and the color and shine disappear after two hours of wear or less. If you eat or drink, good luck getting any wear out of these at all; the product just vanishes!

The texture on the lips isn’t gritty, but it’s not quite smooth… almost waxy in some ways. These were best applied on naturally healthy lips, as the consistency/texture tended to accentuate any imperfections on the lips–definitely exfoliate prior to using these. The color is buildable from sheer to semi-opaque color coverage. If a color is going to be one of those super hydrating, buttery balm-like formulas that wears away quickly, it at least needs to be ultra hydrating to make up for it, and I felt like these just stayed middle-of-the-road on all accounts. The lipsticks are packaged in cardboard containers, which may be a deal-breaker for some. They have a light mint scent, but I didn’t notice a mint taste. These looked a lot better when initially applied than they actually are in reality, unfortunately!

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I picked this up in Angelic Nude recently and I wasn’t very impressed either. It definitely emphasizes any dryness or imperfections on my lips, which was such a downer. And I agree, it isn’t particularly moisturizing. I personally think Tarte’s Lipsurgences are better, though I don’t know if it’s fair to compare a lip tint to a lip butter. I was mainly interested in the lip butters for their adorable packaging and because it’s slightly more cost effective than the Lipsurgence.

I am so sad to read your review. I have been coveting these lipsticks because I think the packaging is adorable, but sadly I will not be purchasing.

What are your thoughts about Tarte’s formulas lately? I used to be really into Tarte about five years ago and then stopped because the quality was just NOT good. After they got into the Amazonian clay products, I saw people going crazy for their blushes, eyeliners, I am still not ready to take the plunge because I really dont remember being impressed with anything aside from their mascaras and some Lipsurgences.

I don’t have that much experience with Tarte, before or now – some things are nice, but in general, some of the claims are bit too much – like their blushes are very nice, but they’re not as long-wearing as they’re touted!

The blushes are really good, great colors and good application. I don’t think they last up to 10 hours though, but that’s ok because I don’t need my blush to last 10 hours lol. Their lip tints and matte lipsticks are really good too.

What a shame that you weren’t in love with these lipsticks…. the colors are gorgeous, the kind of colors I always gravitate towards. And I love Tarte, so that’s disappointing too! But as always, I totally appreciate your honest review!
– Michelle

I like the colors and the price but the wear is just too disappointing. I can’t do touch ups too often at work so this just wouldn’t be idealfancie Recently Posted: Too Faced La Creme Lipstick Swatches

Boy, am I glad I read your review! I saw the photo and fell in love. I had no idea that the adorable print packaging/tube is cardboard. That’s OK for a product for a few dollars but not for $16. And I’m disappointed that it is neither a true balm or a regular lipstick. So disappointed, but you saved me a trip to the store!Allison Recently Posted: GIVEAWAY: Milani Makeup & Lip-Shaped Makeup Cases!

I picked these up in Tulip and Plummy Rose last week at Sephora. I personally love them. They’re a no fuss, just swipe and go lipstick for me. I didn’t expect them to last very long on the lips though being that they are lip butters.